Photographer's Note

Castle Beilstein - in the eastern part of the low mountain range Westerwald - first was mentioned in 1129 and the little town around it got its municipal law already in 1321. The castle was built by an unknown noble family. Since 1341 the owners were the counts of Nassau who enlarged and fortified the castle.
In the Thirty Years' War the town privileges of Beilstein ceased and the castle became a ruin. In 1812 this ruin was sold to the people of a nearby burnt down village - by the way, for 800 guilders (also "florin" or "gulden") - in order to get building material for the reconstruction of their home.

As you can see a nearly futuristic appearing new building was integrated in the remaining historic structures some years ago - a true architectural challenge - and a nearly breathtaking sight. The building and its outbuildings today house a residential home for young handicapped persons.

In the workshop you can see a view from another angle. You also can see more old walls there - more challenges for venturous architects ;-)

Hi Frank,
A very interesting and definitely a different way to upgrade an old ruin. This looks like a successful renovation, and your fine picture of this remarkable castle is a good proof.
Best regards
Gunnar

Hello Frank,
It is good to see such good use being made of what were previously ruins. The modern architecture integrates well with the old stone walls. The lovely blue sky makes a fine backdrop for the grey stones and roof. Very good natural colours and excellent clarity. Thanks for sharing.

Hi Frank,
Interesting and surprising architectural sight. This style is a little bit strange for my eye. The composition is superb, the colours are splendid. Thank you for sharing.
Have a nice weekend!
George

Hallo Frank,
An interesting picture because it's a different way to present a ruined medieval castle, I've never seen something like such a modern structure on them, like it and the picture is of good quality.
E guets Neus !
JY

This is very unusual architecture and a new way to deal with ruined buidings. I wonder about the expense, as it is often said it is cheaper to pull down a building and re-build, than to renovate. I can't decide what I think about it. For instance they have made the tower structure like a medieval tower, in keeping with the old castle, but used glass and what looks like plastic. Very strange and interesting. A worthy and thought-provoking post Frank.
Kath
Happy New Year!

Hello franck
very interesting architecture work. This picture is the best from WS for presenting the nicest aspect.
I like the blue on blue impact here and its contrast whith the stone walls.
Best whishes
JMarc

Frank,
This is an interesting blending of ancient and modern architecture. The lighting and colors are great with nice sharpness and detail. The deep blue sky provides a nice backdrop for the scene.
TFS,
Asa

first time i see recreation inside the older status with this ...mixture way...usually the archaeological office never gives permission for this fact...you now why...it is strange for me to give my opinion for this one conversation is more logical to have one conclusion..but you give a super icon of this saturation Franky thank you for this my friend ...is a astonish presentation ....my rgrds file moy

Hallo Frank,
I see that while we struggled through snow, rain and fog in Italy at the end of the year, you've had brilliant weather in Germany.

Your photo is an admirable example of ancient and modern architecture merged in perfect agreement. Wonderful colors and enviable sharpness of your capture make it one of the best photo achievements on TE for this year.